Literary notes about devotion (AI summary)
In literature, devotion emerges as a multifaceted concept, embodying both a deep emotional commitment and a disciplined loyalty that spans diverse realms—from personal relationships to religious, patriotic, and intellectual pursuits. It is frequently portrayed as the force that drives individuals to sacrifice personal gain for a higher purpose, as seen in tales of both sacred duty and fervent personal attachment [1, 2, 3]. In some works, devotion underscores a transformation of character or belief, such as the transition from paganism to a spiritual calling [4] or the unyielding allegiance demanded even from a morally ambiguous character [5]. Equally, devotion serves as a marker of integrity and steadfastness in society, whether it is the quiet, persistent commitment in familial bonds or the passionate zeal in the service of a cause [6, 7, 8].
- May therefore this be enough to testifie My true devotion, free from flattery; He that beleeves himselfe, doth never lie.
— from The Poems of John Donne, Volume 1 (of 2) by John Donne - She was whirled onward through the next couple of critical hours by the mastering tide of her devotion to him, which closed up further meditation.
— from Tess of the d'Urbervilles: A Pure Woman by Thomas Hardy - He was short of provisions, short of arms, short of ammunition, short of military wisdom, short of everything but courage and devotion to duty.
— from Following the Equator: A Journey Around the World by Mark Twain - This rapid transition from wantonness to devotion, from paganism to Christianity, has something startling and unnatural about it.
— from The Memoirs of Jacques Casanova de Seingalt, 1725-1798. Complete by Giacomo Casanova - And the more detestable his actions are to the citizens the more satellites and the greater devotion in them will he require?
— from The Republic of Plato by Plato - The influence of these two, and the son's loyal devotion to his family, can best be read in Trevelyan's interesting biography.
— from English Literature by William J. Long - Where, indeed, is to be found more patriotism than in the country, greater devotion to the public welfare, more intelligence, in a word?
— from Madame Bovary by Gustave Flaubert - Therefore in honour and gratitude to him, and with devotion to your selfe, I humbly Dedicate unto you this my discourse of Common-wealth.
— from Leviathan by Thomas Hobbes
